R360 Competition Players Subject to 10-Year Exclusion from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Leading National Rugby League players have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's sides and women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa the player, who plays for the Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major union teams, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC head the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the development of players. They simply exploit the hard work of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

Following the potential union bans were declared earlier, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will release all players for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, union's governing body, at its council meeting in the coming year.